Donnigton on Bain 7th June 2023
Wednesday 7th June 2023.
A ‘Wednesday Wander’ and Ride Leader Tim Newbery was delighted to have the company of John Ambler, Paul Linder and Alan Hockham.
Today a hilly ride to Donnington on Bain with the weather, as it has been for many a day, set to be overcast and chilly with a top temperature of just 12 Degrees Celsius. The climbs would at least keep us warm.
A familiar route past Hubbards Hills took us through Hallington where Donnington Road took us all the way to the ancient drover’s trackway, the Bluestone Heath Road. The sharp climb out of Welsdale is always a bit of a test but we were soon descending to Donnington on Bain where Tim had suggested we take refreshment at ‘The Post and Pantry’. Tasty sausage rolls had been enjoyed before and Simon was able to heat a selection in the oven for us today, along with cups of coffee.
Now a flattish section along the River Bain Valley to Asterby where we would peel away to cross over the A1543 to Scambelsby and St. Martin’s Church. Tim had enjoyed picnics in the grounds during the pandemic, with fine views of the surrounding countryside.
The Church provides free hot and cold drinks and biscuits to passers-by. On this occasion however Paul had been busy home baking and provided us all with delicious shortbread treats. Thanks Paul.
Paul noted the Commonwealth War Graves Commission sign by the entrance of the church and indeed there’s a headstone marking the burial of Wireless Operator/Air Gunner Sergeant George Edward Smith, whose Hampden crashed at Scamblesby during a low flying training exercise on 25th November 1941.
Leaving the village behind, Rowgate Road afforded attractive views of Goulceby Beck before we’d need to dig deep and climb the sharp ascent up to the Bluestone Heath Road once more. We would soon reach our highest altitude of about 150 m.
For some it would be a familiar route along Oslear’s Lane through Maidenwell and Haugham before passing through Haugham Pastures and Maltby Wood to Little Cawthorpe. Tim was now able to see what Rob had described a couple of weeks ago about many of the trees by the roadside having been cut down.
Arrived back at the Leisure Centre in Louth at a little after 1 pm having covered 40 km, the thermometer stuck at 12 degrees. Thanks to all for their company.